Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Nantou County, Taiwan, Rich Year Farm is a remarkable mushroom haven that blends nature, agriculture, and sustainable living. This ecological farm has become a beacon for those seeking to reconnect with the environment, learn about organic farming, and experience the rural charm of Taiwan.
Watch the following video on Mushroom Haven in Nantou, Taiwan for further interesting images.
History of the mushroom haven
Established in 1966, Rich Year Farm is a leading supplier of mushrooms in Taiwan. In 1981, it was one of the pioneers in developing the so-called outer-space bag technology, marking a significant milestone in Taiwan’s agricultural industry.
At the end of 2002, in line with the government’s policy of promoting leisure agriculture, the original facilities and visitor routes were reorganized, adding a tourist service center, an eco-classroom, an outdoor eco-area, and other peripheral facilities.
In the same year, the farm was renamed Rich Year Farm and developed into a flagship destination combining education, tourism, leisure, and family-friendly DIY activities. The farm has since become a popular destination for visitors who want to learn about mushrooms while enjoying a hands-on experience of growing a variety of mushrooms.
A scenic retreat featuring mushrooms
Situated on 3 hectares (7.4 acres) of land, the farm offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, surrounded by breathtaking views of the countryside. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a vibrant landscape of lush trees adorned with striking staghorn ferns on the trunks. The green lawns are dotted with whimsical mushroom installations, blooming flowers, and colorful directional signs, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere where nature meets playful design.
A commitment to sustainability
At the core of Rich Year Farm’s mission is its dedication to sustainable farming practices. The farm employs organic and eco-friendly methods to cultivate crops, ensuring minimal environmental impact. By avoiding chemical fertilizers and pesticides, Rich Year Farm produces healthier, fresher produce and contributes to preserving the local ecosystem. The used outer-space bag’s compost is turned into organic fertilizer to grow flowers or other plants. This commitment to sustainability has made the farm a model for environmentally responsible agriculture in Taiwan.
Family-friendly farming experiences
One of the highlights of visiting Rich Year Farm is the opportunity to engage in hands-on farming activities centered around mushrooms. These activities provide an educational and immersive experience, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the effort and care that goes into sustainable agriculture.
One of the activities is the Mushroom Cultivation DIY, where participants learn about the production process of mushroom growing kits, known as outer space bags. Visitors can create their own outer space bags and take them home to cultivate fresh mushrooms.
For younger visitors, the Mushroom Painting DIY activity introduces children to the mushroom growth process while letting them express their creativity by painting their own unique mushroom designs.
Additionally, the farm offers a Mushroom Ecological Tour, the only one in Taiwan that thoroughly explains the entire process from outer-space bag production to mushroom cultivation. Children can also enjoy outdoor adventures, like running barefoot up to the top of the wood dust pile to dig for “Chicken Mother Bug” (雞母蟲 scarabaeiform larva). These interactive activities make Rich Year Farm a perfect destination for families to learn about nature, experience farming life, and create unforgettable memories.
Mushroom picking activities
Visiting the mushroom growing rooms is an exciting and interactive experience for all ages. Rows of racks filled with outer space bags create a unique and fascinating environment where mushrooms thrive. Visitors are free to pluck as many mushrooms as they like, making the experience both fun and rewarding. Children especially enjoy the activity, carrying plastic baskets either by hand or strapped to their backs as they explore the growing rooms.
The joy of discovering and picking fresh mushrooms straight from the outer-space bags sparks curiosity and excitement. The soft texture of the mushrooms and the earthy aroma in the air add to the immersive experience. This hands-on activity not only provides a fun way to engage with nature but also offers a great learning opportunity about how mushrooms grow. Whether for families or individuals, plucking mushrooms in this space is both an enjoyable and memorable adventure.
A taste of farm-to-table freshness
Rich Year Farm offers visitors the chance to savor fresh, locally-grown produce. The farm’s on-site kitchen serves meals prepared with ingredients harvested directly from its fields and growing rooms. This farm-to-table experience ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition, giving visitors an authentic taste of the countryside. Visitors can also participate in the Mushroom Pizza DIY, using freshly harvested mushrooms to craft delicious and nutritious pizzas.
Educational opportunities
In addition to providing recreational activities, Rich Year Farm is also a hub for agricultural education. The farm regularly hosts workshops and events to teach sustainable farming practices, organic gardening, and environmental conservation. These programs are ideal for students, educators, and anyone interested in learning how to live in harmony with nature.
Rich Year Farm is undoubtedly a shining example of how farming, education, and eco-tourism can coexist harmoniously. With its stunning natural beauty, commitment to sustainability, and diverse range of activities, the farm offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
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